News Summary
Dr. Salvador Plasencia pleaded guilty to illegally distributing ketamine, linked to the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry. This case highlights concerns about ketamine’s regulation and the responsibilities of medical professionals in treating addiction. As legal proceedings unfold, the industry faces scrutiny regarding oversight in drug distribution, especially for vulnerable individuals. Plasencia’s actions may lead to significant legal consequences, reflecting the complex intersection of medical ethics and addiction recovery.
Los Angeles – Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a doctor based in California, pleaded guilty on July 23, 2025, to four counts of illegally distributing ketamine. This plea was presented in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles and is part of a larger investigation into the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry, who died in October 2023 at the age of 54.
Matthew Perry was discovered unresponsive in his jacuzzi on October 28, 2023. An autopsy revealed that Perry’s death resulted from the acute effects of ketamine, alongside contributing factors including drowning and coronary artery disease. Dr. Plasencia, aged 43, is among five individuals facing charges in connection with this high-profile case. He could face a potential prison sentence of up to 40 years during his upcoming sentencing, scheduled for December 3, 2025.
Following his plea, Plasencia will remain free on bond until sentencing, during which he plans to surrender his medical license within the next 30 to 45 days. In court, he displayed emotional distress, using tissues while responding affirmatively to the judge’s inquiries concerning his actions. Plasencia admitted to injecting Perry with ketamine at both the actor’s home and in the backseat of a parked vehicle, explicitly stating it was not for any legitimate medical purposes.
Prior to this case, Plasencia was known to operate an urgent care clinic from which he obtained ketamine. Investigations revealed that he communicated with Dr. Mark Chavez of San Diego about Perry, indicating a desire to exploit the actor’s drug dependency. Allegations indicate that Plasencia charged Perry substantial amounts for the drug, totaling about $4,500.
The case has also seen three other co-defendants, including another doctor, plead guilty. The fifth defendant, identified as Jasveen Sangha and dubbed the “ketamine queen,” has been charged with providing the ketamine dose that contributed to Perry’s death; however, Sangha has pleaded not guilty. Sangha’s trial is set for August 2025.
The investigation into this case reflects a growing concern regarding the regulation of ketamine distribution, particularly in at-home settings. Plasencia’s attorney described him as “profoundly remorseful” for his involvement, emphasizing the necessity for stricter oversight in the industry, particularly when it comes to the administration of ketamine outside of traditional medical environments.
Perry’s history with substance abuse is well-documented. He had been open about his struggles during his career, notably while starring in the hit television series “Friends.” His tragic passing has sparked conversations about addiction, mental health, and the responsibilities of medical professionals when treating individuals with substance use disorders.
As the case develops, it remains to be seen how the legal outcomes will shape policies surrounding ketamine distribution and usage among vulnerable populations. With multiple defendants involved, the case serves as a significant reminder of the complex issues intertwining addiction recovery, medical ethics, and the responsibilities of healthcare providers.
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Additional Resources
- ABC7 News
- ABC News
- Los Angeles Times
- Reuters
- Google Search: Matthew Perry ketamine case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: ketamine
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
